PHILADELPHIA — Jalen Hurts has successfully exited NFL concussion protocol and will be back on the field for the Eagles in their upcoming playoff game.
With Hurts’ return, the NFC East-winning Eagles (14-3) are nearly at full capacity as they prepare to face the Green Bay Packers in the NFC wild-card matchup this Sunday.
“The presence of Jalen Hurts on the field is always a positive,” noted Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni during a press conference on Friday.
The quarterback had been sidelined since sustaining a concussion when he left a game against Washington early on December 22. This week, the 26-year-old Hurts participated in practice, indicating he is fit to start in the postseason. He was unable to play in the team’s last two matches, during which their backups, Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee, managed to secure wins. Prior to his injury, Hurts had contributed significantly to the team, leading them to a streak of ten consecutive victories.
As per BetMGM Sportsbook, the Eagles were listed as 4.5-point favorites against the Packers earlier in the week, and that line has since shifted to 5.5 points as game day approaches.
It’s worth noting that the NFL’s concussion protocol consists of five stages, with the final stage requiring clearance from an independent neurological consultant.
The Eagles are viewed as strong candidates for the Super Bowl with Hurts back in the lineup, particularly when compared to the health status of the Packers’ quarterback, Jordan Love. Love admitted that he is still feeling discomfort from an elbow injury sustained in the regular-season finale.
In the 2023 season, Hurts threw for 2,903 yards with 18 touchdown passes and only five interceptions, showcasing exquisite play, especially after the Eagles returned from their bye in Week 5. An impressive aspect of his performance this year has been his rushing ability, racking up 14 touchdowns on the ground, largely due to the Eagles’ unique “tush push” play.
Sirianni emphasized the importance of prioritizing Hurts’ health, stating, “Being careful with him is always our approach. We need him on the field.”
Despite some minor health concerns surrounding the Eagles’ receiving corps, there was optimism following the return of tight end Dallas Goedert from a knee injury. In his comeback, he registered four receptions for 55 yards. Wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, both critical components of the offense, missed practice this week for recovery, yet they are expected to suit up against the Packers (11-6).
Sirianni expressed confidence in the unit’s ability when they are all healthy, noting, “Having our key players together is something to be excited about. They are exceptional talents that elevate our game.”
On the topic of whether the late-season rest would affect Hurts’ playing rhythm, Sirianni dismissed any worry, pointing out the extensive practice reps that Hurts has shared with his receivers throughout the season.
In their previous meeting, Hurts completed 20 of 34 passes for 278 yards and threw two touchdowns, contributing to the Eagles’ 34-29 win over the Packers in their season opener.
Known for his dual-threat capability, Hurts not only excels through the air but also poses a serious running threat, having recorded 630 rushing yards this season. Nevertheless, he did face adversity when he suffered his concussion after being hit during a play.
Sirianni clarified the team’s strategy, stating, “We always incorporate safety measures into our game plan, especially during designed runs for him.”
In the event of further injuries, the Eagles have backup options. Pickett had begun in Hurts’ absence against Dallas, but he left the game with rib injuries. McKee, who is usually a third-string option, stepped up, throwing two touchdown passes in his first regular-season appearance and following that performance with another solid outing against the Giants.
The presence of capable backups can provide much-needed security for playoff teams, especially for one like the Eagles.
